Shaping LION’s
Future

Over the years, she has shaped curriculum, led the Social Studies department, and helped launch initiatives including the Dynamics of Difference Committee and student leadership panels. In 2009, she was named an Emerging Leader Fellow and participated in the Charter Center’s Principal Support Network.

Celia holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Philosophy from Binghamton University and a Master’s degree in Education from Pace University. She was also a 2005 corps member of Teach For America.

Celia believes schools should be places where students develop voice, purpose, and agency. When she is not at LION, she enjoys spending time with family, gardening, and participating in community service that supports local non-profit organizations. Celia is also an avid runner and voracious reader. A lifelong learner, she enjoys reading nonfiction articles and texts on education, leadership, and philosophy.

In this role, she oversees the school’s financial strategy, compliance, and accounting operations to ensure strong stewardship of public funds and long-term sustainability. Leslie first began working with LION in 2016 as a consultant before joining the organization full-time as Controller in 2017. After more than five years serving as Controller, she transitioned to nonprofit consulting roles focused on the New York City charter school sector. Prior to returning to LION as CFO, Leslie served as Commercial Sales and Support Operations Controller for North America at the Air France-KLM Group. Her broader career spans nonprofit and education finance leadership roles, including providing CFO-level advisory support to charter schools nationwide.

Leslie earned her Bachelor of Arts in Global & International Studies from the State University of New York at Oswego. She brings deep expertise in nonprofit financial management, government grant compliance, single audits, board reporting, bond covenant compliance, and multi-year financial planning.

Outside of work, Leslie enjoys spending time with family and friends and values opportunities to travel and experience different cultures.

She has led efforts to expand enrichment programming, strengthen teacher leadership, and create meaningful opportunities for student voice. She began her teaching career in 2004 and has taught children in grades 3-12 in a variety of subjects in New York City and Paris, France.

Maya earned a Bachelor of Arts in French and Comparative Literature from Haverford College and completed post-baccalaureate studies at the University of Pennsylvania. She holds advanced degrees from Hunter College, including a doctorate in Instructional Leadership.

Maya is passionate about storytelling and community building. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, teaching and practicing yoga, and having fun with her children by exploring the city, baking, or hosting spontaneous dance parties.

She began her career in 2010 as a founding Kindergarten teacher at Success Academy Harlem 5 and went on to serve as a Grade Team Lead and Dean of Students. She later stepped into school leadership as Assistant Principal at Canarsie Ascend Charter School, Principal at Bushwick Ascend Middle School, and Principal at Boys Prep Elementary School before joining LION.

Miatta earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Arts in Education from Hunter College.

Miatta is driven by the belief that strong elementary foundations open doors for a lifetime. In her spare time, you can find her focused on her family, exploring the world, and creating space to recharge.

Her work has centered on strengthening middle school academics and student support systems.

Ada earned a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Human Services from Metropolitan College of New York and a Master of Arts in Middle School Education from Relay Graduate School of Education.

Ada is committed to serving the Bronx community that shaped her. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, traveling the world, cooking, and exploring different cuisines. She considers herself to be an unofficial food critic.

Matthew earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Marist College and Master’s degrees from Baruch College and Hunter College. He also attended the National Institute for Urban School Leaders at Harvard University.

Matthew is focused on expanding rigorous academic pathways and preparing students for life beyond high school. In his spare time, you can find Matthew on an adventure with his children, engrossed in various DIY projects, and supporting student athletics.

She began her career in 2002 with Teach For America in Greater New Orleans and has worked in traditional and charter schools in Louisiana and New York City.

Liz earned her undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master’s degree in Special Education from Queens College.

Liz is a dedicated advocate for inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive. In her spare time, Liz enjoys swimming, hiking, reading, and photography.

She began her career in 2007 through the New York City Teaching Fellows program and has taught in New York City and Maine.

Keveney earned a Bachelor’s degree in English from Manhattanville University and a Master’s degree in Secondary English Education, completing graduate studies at The City College of New York and The College of Saint Rose.

Keveney is committed to clear communication, strong storytelling, and ensuring families and community members feel connected to LION’s work. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her children, exploring the world of art and culture, and continuing to grow as a lifelong learner.

She brings extensive experience in talent management and organizational leadership and works closely with school leaders to build systems that support staff growth and long-term success.

Tara holds a Master’s degree in Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and maintains professional certifications, including SPHR and SHRM CP.

Tara is committed to building an inclusive and supportive workplace culture. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her children, mentoring future leaders, and engaging in community service.